Stubbs forced to retire

Derby defender Alan Stubbs has been forced to retire following a recurrence of a troublesome knee injury.

The 36-year-old made the decision after scans revealed a return of the problem that prematurely ended his campaign in April last season and saw him undergo surgery.

County chairman Adam Pearson paid tribute to the experienced centre-half, saying: "It is a blow because Alan Stubbs is not just a great player and organiser, he is also a fantastic leader and a great human being."

He added: "The way he has handled himself over this injury and being forced to call it a day is testament to the kind of person he is."

Stubbs, who moved to Pride Park in January on an 18-month deal, began his career at Bolton in 1990 and also played for Celtic, Everton, where he had two spells, and Sunderland.